WHAT IT IS: Vinpocetine is a compound derived from the plant, Vinca minor L. which is part of the periwinkle plant family. It is used in Europe, Japan and Mexico as a pharmaceutical drug, but sold in the U.S. as a dietary supplement. Vinpocetine appears to improve blood flow to the brain, and influence metabolism. It may also work as an anticonvulsant, an antioxidant and neuroprotector which enhances cognition1.

HOW IT WORKS: After being absorbed in the small intestine, the liver processes it and distributes it throughout systemic circulation. From here, it flows to the brain and other parts of the body. This plant-based compound exerts powerful effects in the body at the cellular level. Vinpocetine has been shown to protect neurons against excitotoxicity (neuron cell death caused by excitatory amino acids). Vinpocetine appears to have calcium-channel blocking abilities, which may pose vascular benefits to health. Finally, vinpocetine inhibits cGMP phophodiesterase, which increases cerebral blood flow1.

PRIMARY EFFECTS: Vinpocetine may reduce fatality from ischemic stroke. A recent study found that just a two-week intravenous delivery of Vinpocetine to patients with chronic ischemic stroke patients had improved regional cerebral blood flow2. Due to its ability to enhance blood flow, especially to the brain, it may play a role in Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

WEIGHT LOSS AND LONGEVITY

ADDITIONAL RESEARCH IN LONGEVITY: Part of the normal aging process includes slow decline of mental function. Vinpocetine appears to enhance cerebral blood flow and prevent or reduce this reduction in brain signaling and operations.